By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) David Wyscaver
GALVESTON, Texas (NNS) -- The disaster recovery team (DRT) embarked on Amphibious Assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) arrived in Galveston, Texas, Sept. 18 to support disaster relief efforts in the wake of Hurricane Ike.
The DRT consists of Sailors from Amphibious Construction Battalion 2 (ACB-2) stationed at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek (NABLC). They are deployed to aid in situations such as natural disasters.
"The main mission of our unit is to provide relief support wherever it's needed, whether it be by construction, electrical assistance, clearing debris, chopping down trees, search and rescue or just helping to fix facilities. Whatever the relief efforts call for, we are there to provide," said Builder 2nd Class (SCW) Anthony Marshall, Amphibious Construction Battalion 2.
The unit hit the beach of the Texas Coast Sept. 18 via Landing Craft Unit (LCU) where they began using their large equipment and versatile capabilities to provide emergency debris clearance at critical infrastructures, such as the Port of Galveston.
"Everybody in the unit will play a huge part, ensuring we all handle our individual responsibilities for the team and coming together as one to help those we are here to help," said Steelworker Construction Recruit Lane Adger, steelworker ACB-2.
"We have a very good team, and it is one team, one fight. Everyone's skills are augmented through one another, and there's so much training involved to help prepare us to step in at anytime and get the job done," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class John Southwell, medical department leading petty officer ACB-2.
In order to carry out each particular task in conjunction with civil authorities, communication is key in coordinating what resources are needed and where they will be the most effective during the recovery efforts.
"I'm serving as the liaison officer for Navy Task Group Ike," said Lt. Cmdr. Eric Lull, training and readiness officer for Amphibious Squadron 6. "I'm going to be on land in Galveston coordinating any information Nassau will need to help them complete their mission in supporting the relief efforts."
A few Sailors involved in the mission offered their personal feelings on what it means to be a part of the recovery process.
"I'm originally from Leport, Texas, and this storm has damaged the home I grew up in along with my aunt's vacation home," said Aviation Ordnanceman Airman (AW) Cody Blair. "It feels really good to know I can help make a difference in restoring the area I once called home."
Lull agreed.
"I was born in San Antonio and lived in the Sugarland area as well. It's great to be back and be able to help out."
USS Nassau and other military units are working together in support of civil authorities to help the recovery process in Galveston and other areas of Texas damaged in the wake of Hurricane Ike.
